Safety Tips

Ten Safety Tips to Reduce the Risk of Shark Injury

Swim, surf, or dive with other people, and don’t move too far away from assistance.

Stay out of the water at dawn, dusk, and night, when some species of sharks may move inshore to feed. But be aware that tiger sharks are known to bite people at all times of the day. (See graphic below.)

Do not enter the water if you have open wounds or are bleeding in any way. Sharks can detect blood and body fluids in extremely small concentrations.

Avoid murky waters, harbor entrances, and areas near stream mouths (especially after heavy rains), channels, or steep dropoffs. These types of waters are known to be frequented by sharks.

Do not wear high-contrast clothing or shiny jewelry. Sharks see contrast very well.

Refrain from excesive splashing; keep pets, which swim erratically, out of the water. Sharks are known to be attracted to such activity.

Do not enter the water if sharks are known to be present, and leave the water quickly and calmly if one is sighted. Do not provoke or harass a shark, even a small one.

If fish or turtles start to behave erratically, leave the water. Be alert to the presence of dolphins, as they are prey for some large sharks.

Remove speared fish from the water or tow them a safe distance behind you. Do not swim near people fishing or spearfishing. Stay away from dead animals in the water.

Swim or surf at beaches patrolled by lifeguards, and follow their advice.

Click image to enlarge.Intervals are from :01 to :00. Example 630 AM is 6:01 to 7:00 am.Includes all known provoked and unprovoked incidents through 2015.